Here’s the crux of the explanation why ear hair (especially in men) grows more with age:

Hormonal influence: The main reason is often the hair follicles’ response to male sex hormones (androgens) such as the testosterone breakdown product dihydrotestosterone (DHT). While these hormones can cause hair loss on the scalp in men (genetically), they promote hair growth in other areas such as the ears and nose.

Altered growth cycle: With age, the hair cycle in these areas slows down. This means that the hair grows longer before falling out. The fine, light-colored hairs that everyone has in their ears (vellus hair) therefore become longer, thicker, and darker, making them much more noticeable.

In summary: With age, the hair follicles in the ears become more sensitive to circulating male hormones, leading to increased, bristly hair growth. It’s a completely normal and harmless aging process